The chase for Boro defender intensifies

11 January 2011 09:51
David Wheater trained with Middlesbrough at Rockliffe Park yesterday as Bolton attempted to thrash out the finer details of a deal before rival clubs trump their offer.[LNB] The defender is believed to have engaged in discussions with the Trotters over a move to the Reebok Stadium after he was pulled out of Boro's squad for the trip to Burton Albion on Saturday.[LNB] The situation, after manager Tony Mowbray's admission that things were happening, has alerted other interested clubs over the player's valuation and availability.[LNB] Bolton took huge steps towards landing the player, but Everton are now among a clutch of clubs contemplating whether or not to bring forward their attempts to land the 23-year-old.[LNB] Everton, Stoke, Wolves and Newcastle who have watched him in the last few weeks have identified Wheater as a target.[LNB] Most, however, were prepared to wait until the summer when they would be able to sign the centre-back when he becomes a free agent.[LNB] But Bolton's firm move for his services on Friday has alerted the rest of the player's suitors that they will have to act now.[LNB] Middlesbrough are believed to be looking for a deal worth around £4m, although the likelihood is that £2.5m is what Bolton would have to pay up front.[LNB] But with interest so high, Middlesbrough could find themselves being offered greater terms if the pursuit of Wheater becomes an auction.[LNB] Bolton remain the favourites, with the Middlesbrough defender knowing he stands a greater chance of playing under Owen Coyle.[LNB] Coyle hinted he would like to sign Wheater, even if the manager's comments suggested there was still some wheeling and dealing to be done before the move is finalised.[LNB] Coyle said: He's a very good young player but there's loads of good young players out there. I haven't spoken to Tony Mowbray about David Wheater and people are putting two and two together.[LNB] We'd love to bring some players in and help the group we've got. Is David Wheater one of them[LNB] I'm not in a position to comment one way or another.[LNB] This month is shaping up to be one of the most uncertain in recent years at the Riverside Stadium, where Mowbray needs to trim the wage bill.[LNB] Meanwhile, Swansea City remain interested in signing Marvin Emnes this month, but Middlesbrough would not be willing to lose any player unless it suits them.[LNB] That means the Swans are unlikely to be able to take the Dutchman on loan for the rest of the season if Boro had to pay a large portion of his wages.[LNB] Swansea are keen to bring in another forward after signing Luke Moore from West Bromwich Albion and Boro's Leroy Lita is also thought to be under consideration.[LNB] The possibility of Emnes leaving would be reduced if he was going to be ruled out through injury for the next six weeks, which has been speculated.[LNB] Emnes had to withdraw from Saturday's trip to the Pirelli Stadium with a foot injury, but Middlesbrough insist he could figure at Bristol City this Saturday.[LNB] Barry Robson (thigh) and goalkeeper Jason Steele (knee) were also absent at Burton but they are in contention to return at Ashton Gate.[LNB] Boro's home match with Nottingham Forest in the Championship's postponed on Boxing Day has been rearranged to take place at the Riverside Stadium on Tuesday, March 1 (ko 7.45pm).[LNB]

Source: Northern_Echo